Coding as a Foreign Language? What Schools are Saying

Should we consider coding as a foreign language?

Do you think we should consider coding as a foreign language? Some people do, but others disagree. I searched social media to see what sides people are taking. I watch social media closely and it’s my job to share some of the hot topics on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and other outlets that teachers, principals, students, and parents are contributing.

Florida is about to become the first state that recognizes coding as a foreign language credit in school. According to an article on NPR, posted by Tech Learning on Twitter, Florida Governor Rick Scott is expected to pass the bill that will make this official. Supporters state that coding is an increasingly necessary skill as technology becomes more and more prevalent in our everyday lives. They also claim that increasing the incentive to take a coding class will encourage more students to sign up for them and to help kids realize that coding isn’t as scary as it first sounds. However, not everyone supports the idea. Some people are arguing that foreign language proficiency is considered more important than coding skills, claiming that coding can be taught faster and easier than the years and dedication required to understand a foreign language.

What is your take on this subject? Do you think more states will pass a similar bill? What about the bigger implications? Is it fair to consider languages that talk to computers on the same level as ones used to talk to humans?

Tori Pakizer is the Social Media Editor at SimpleK12.com. She writes regularly about the use of educational technology in K-12 classrooms, and specializes in how teachers use Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and other social media. You can follow Tori and SimpleK12 on Twitter @SimpleK12. If you have ideas for using social media in schools, please send your information or tip to editor@simplek12.com.